The January transfer window may be closed around Europe, but teams are looking ahead to the summer and there’s plenty of gossip swirling around. Transfer Talk brings you all the latest buzz on rumours, comings, goings and, of course, done deals!
TOP STORY: Gundogan has his mind made up to leave Man City for Barca
Barcelona will push ahead in their efforts to sign Manchester City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan in the summer, as has been reported by Diario Sport.
Clearing the way for the move is the fact that 32-year-old’s current contract is set to expire at the end of this campaign. He is said to be turning down any new offer from Man City as he wants to move to the Camp Nou.
Barcelona’s hierarchy were reportedly impressed by Gundogan’s display in Man City’s 3-0 Champions League quarterfinal first leg victory over Bayern Munich, which has removed any doubt that he is the man for them.
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Barca and their coaching staff see Gundogan’s versatility in midfield as something that could prove vital for them, while they also like his performance levels and physical conditioning.
Gundogan had initially wanted a wage similar to the one he receives at the Etihad but that will not be possible due to Barca’s financial issues. Now efforts are underway to reach a financial agreement, with Barca hoping to come up with a formula by offering more than the two years originally planned for the contract.
Barcelona are adamant that they will reduce their wage bill and be able to sign Gundogan without any problems this summer.
